George Michael Webster

George Webster, affectionately known to many as Michael or “Mike,” passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, at the age of 75.

Born on August 15, 1950, in Springfield, Ohio, George was born to Jennie Orr and was later adopted into the Webster family, where he was lovingly raised by his parents, George Sr. and Jessie Webster. He grew up in Springfield, just west of Columbus, where his lifelong passion for music first began.

Music was always at the center of Mike’s life. At just seven years old, he began taking piano lessons and performed in local recitals. By the age of twelve, he added drums to his repertoire. At fourteen, he was already performing live around Springfield, and at sixteen, he transitioned to bass guitar — the instrument that would become his signature voice. Throughout his teenage years and into adulthood, Mike gigged regularly on both bass and drums, performing rock & roll, R&B, jazz, and eventually gravitating toward the blues — the genre that would define his musical legacy.

While still in Springfield, Mike recorded with Bobby Wilson and Brenda Jones and contributed to projects with Clap City Records, establishing himself early as a respected and versatile musician.

In 1976, Mike relocated to Southern California, where he built both a professional career and a thriving musical life. He worked for and eventually retired from San Bernardino County and the City of Rialto. Yet even as he approached retirement, his love for music only deepened.

He immersed himself in the Southern California blues scene, regularly signing up at local blues jams and open mics. Mike became a beloved fixture at venues such as the BMPC and The Living Room, along with many other local blues gatherings. He performed regularly with Blues & Fries at the Route 66 Roadhouse and later hosted a monthly blues event at South 40 in Mira Loma.

Over the years, Mike was a proud member of numerous local bands and performed with Shadowblue, Teddy Lee Hooker and the Brass Brothers, Seville Street, Big T & the All-Stars, the Steve Riddle Band, the Dominic Rocha Band, the Joe Ferrero Band, and The Mix Band. His talent carried him on tour with legendary artists including Bo Diddley, Bill Corday, Dottie Peoples (gospel), and Bobby Warren. His presence in the blues community was steady, respected, and deeply valued.

In 1979, Mike met the love of his life, Patrice. They were married on January 7, 1981, beginning a beautiful partnership that spanned 45 years. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, music, and family, spending the past 29 years in Fontana, California. They were blessed with five children.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Patrice Webster; his five children: Howard Webster; Shawn “Sunshine” Gearheart; Tashe Chambers; Jerry Michael Webster (Deidra Webster); and Davion Webster (Johnathon Lavender). He is also survived by his beloved sister, Jackie Henry; 12 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends, all of whom he loved deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Sr. and Jessie Webster; his birth mother, Jennie Orr; and his brother, James “Stinker” Moss.

Those who knew Mike will remember his infectious smile, his overwhelming laughter, and his unwavering love for music and family. He carried himself with honesty and integrity, embracing new opportunities without fear. He was a quiet but powerful leader — the kind of presence people naturally gravitated toward. His patience, kindness, and willingness to mentor younger musicians left an enduring mark on the local blues community.

Mike had a rare gift: he made people feel welcome, valued, and seen. His positive energy filled every room he entered. Whether on stage or off, he gave generously of his time, talent, and heart.

Through it all, music was his language, and the blues were his heartbeat. And if he were here to leave us with one final note, it would be his favorite saying:

“The band played on and on… and on.”

His melody continues in all of us.